When to Go

Both Yosemite and Sequoia & Kings Canyon are open year-round.

Avoid holiday weekends in spring and summer if possible -- park campgrounds are usually full June through August -- and expect some crowds in late spring and early fall as well. Winter is a great time to visit Yosemite -- not only is the park virtually empty, but there are a number of activities, from downhill skiing and sledding at Badger Pass, to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even ice skating. Keep in mind that the high country along Tioga and Glacier Point roads is inaccessible to motor vehicles from mid-fall to early June, when weather closes the roads.

Climate

The climate at both Yosemite and Sequoia & Kings Canyon varies considerably, depending on the region of the park. A good rule of thumb is to remember that the higher you go, the cooler it gets. So pack a parka on any trip that climbs above the valley floor or ventures into the backcountry.

In summer, temperatures at lower elevations (such as Yosemite Valley) can climb into the 90s (30s Celsius) and higher, and plummet into the 50s (10s Celsius) at night. Afternoon temperatures average in the 60s and 70s (10s-20s Celsius) in spring and fall, and again, evenings are usually cool. Afternoon showers are fairly common fall through spring. Winter days average in the 40s and 50s (5-10s Celsius), and it seldom drops below zero (-17 Celsius), although much of the land above 5,500 feet is buried beneath several feet of snow.

The high country gets up to 20 feet of snow half the year, so visitors should be experienced in winter travel. November through March, it is wise to expect snow and be prepared. Remember, particularly wet winters lead to incredibly stunning and powerful spring waterfalls, especially in Yosemite.

Special Events

January to February

Chefs' Holidays. Yosemite hosts nationally renowned chefs, who share their culinary secrets with participants. Cost is $149 per person for a five-course dinner. Packages that include accommodations at The Ahwahnee are available. Call tel. 559/252-5676 for reservations.

February

The Ahwahnee Romance Package. This is an expensive treat for visitors and includes a 2-night stay, plus a candlelight dinner and other romantic extras. Cost is $1,096 plus tax per couple. There is a similar package at Yosemite Lodge at the Falls for about $500 per couple. Call tel. 559/253-5635 for more information.

November to December

Vintners' Holiday. California's finest winemakers hold tastings in The Ahwahnee Great Lounge. Each session concludes with a Vintners' Banquet. The four-course gala event, held in The Ahwahnee Dining Room, pairs four wines with specially selected food. Cost is $149 per person, including gratuities and wine. Two-, three-, and five-night packages are available. Call tel. 559/252-5676 for reservations.

December

The Bracebridge Dinner. Held on eight evenings from December 15 to the day after Christmas, this event transports diners to 17th-century England, with music, food, and song. The Ahwahnee Dining Room is the setting for the festivities, bedecked with wreaths, banners, and traditional Yuletide decorations. This popular event requires reservations, which are secured by lottery. Applications are available from December 1 to January 15 and are due February 15 for the following year. Prices change from year to year, but expect to pay around $330 per person. Call tel. 559/252-5676 for more information.